

An ultrasound that looks at both the deep and superficial veins including mapping is less than 60 minutes, the part of this exam that checks if the valves are leaky is performed in the standing position. A venous ultrasound is primarily used to diagnose deep vein thrombosis (DVT). How long does it take?Īn ultrasound only checking for blood clots typically takes less than 30 minutes. You should not wear your compression stockings the same day as the examination. A venous ultrasound study of the legs is performed to determine the cause of long-standing leg swelling, eczema, aching or pain or visible varicose veins.

This study does not require any preparation.

This should be done for any individual being evaluated for varicose veins, leg swelling, patients who have failed prior treatment, patients who are symptomatic, and in some patients with certain anatomic patterns of spider veins. The ultrasound examination is used to both identify the veins that have faulty valves and to map the anatomy of the veins, creating a ‘road map.’ This is necessary to make an accurate assessment of the cause and extent of the varicose veins, as well as to formulate the best treatment plan. Ultrasound looks at deep and superficial veins in the legs to check for venous reflux or venous-valvular incompetence (the underlying condition that causes varicose veins). The Duplex Ultrasound examination allows us to visualize the blood vessels that are not visible to the naked eye, even blood vessels that are deep within the muscles. With this technology, we look for abnormalities such as tangled veins, blood clots known as deep. You may also have this test to see if you’re a good candidate for angioplasty or to check blood vessel health after bypass. To perform venous duplex ultrasound of the veins, the examiner must understand the venous anatomy and be fully acquainted with the examination protocols for imaging the veins. Providers use this test to diagnose blood clots and peripheral artery disease. R2 are the interfascial veins ( medium blue) which run between the muscle fascia ( orange) and the saphenous fascia (semi-transparent). R1 are the deep leg and perforating veins ( dark blue) which run below the muscle fascia. Ultrasounds of the leg veins that look for leaky valves (venous reflux) are usually performed in the standing position. A vein ultrasound produces an image of the veins in the body. Vascular ultrasound is a noninvasive test healthcare providers use to evaluate blood flow in the arteries and veins of the arms, neck and legs. Diagram of the venous networks R1, R2 and R3.
